Peter offers an itinerary that takes it easy on the coin

story and photos by Peter Lewis

Often geopolitical or financial events might escape our notice during the busy work week. However, if you are reading this then you are well aware of the dire financial situation that has spread across the globe. Unfortunately, America has not been spared from this financial meltdown. As such, it is ever so important to make wise decisions when choosing to dine out for the evening. Thankfully, such establishments that offer flavorful food at fair fees abound in the river valley area.

It is a miraculous achievement that we as a nation have been able to continually assimilate a myriad of cultures into the fabric of our daily life. Whether it be a gyro stand or Chinese take out, our restaurants illustrate the staying power not only of our economy but us as a nation. When we frequent these establishments, they contribute to the value of our daily life by providing savory sustenance and social interaction.

SUPERB STEFFEY’S
Adding to this glorious tradition is a pizzeria in Lavaca. Located at 301 Main St., Steffey’s Pizza typifies America. Locally owned and operated, it’s been “rolling in the dough,” as their menu attests, for more than 25 years. With die-hard patrons and lengthy success, the crew at Steffey’s Pizza obviously know their way around a kitchen.

When opening the front doors the first thing that catches your eye is the open kitchen area and the brick-adorned ovens (pictured at right). And after many years patronizing and/or working in restaurants and bars, it’s a reassuring feeling to find such a pristine kitchen upon arrival.

Upon entering the restaurant head to the right and plop down into a booth to await your smiling server. As one of the focal restaurants in town, you’ll likely notice that quite a few of the patrons and staff are on familiar terms. Sip on an orange Fanta and absorb the scene around you. Steffey’s is filled with pleasing decorative touches like the cheese grate light fixtures over their booths.

Often when visiting a pizzeria the menu is a non-factor. At Steffey’s this couldn’t be further from the truth. While the pizza is most certainly delicious, the real winner on the menu is the pizza sub ($4.15). It is difficult to describe just how tasty this little concoction is. Imagine a calzone. Now slice that calzone in half, add two times the toppings, and you have an idea with what you are working. They are devilishly divine.

PUB BLUES
Belly full and content that you’ve done your part to aid the river valley economy, march westward back toward Fort Smith. Shortly after entering the city limits make a right turn on Meandering Way. Immediately on your left at 3820 Meandering Way is Ava’s Village Pub. While this gem of a pub has already appeared on your Friday itinerary before, it is well worth another visit. Without detailing the plethora of positive aspects that this particular pub provides, be satisfied to know that it not only has pool tables, but plenty of beverages for those of proper age.

With the self-proclaimed title, “one of the south’s premiere cover bands,” Terry and the Executives are sure to be a hit. Nothing says bluesy southern rock quite like the quintessential southern quaff of bourbon on the rocks. Though taste buds differ from one patron to the next, Maker’s Mark has always proved a good friend. So request a nice glass of Maker’s on the rocks from the barkeep and let the swamp boogie & bourbon melt away your work week.

GRAND KARAOKE
If pizza subs are not the scratch needing itched but you still want to be mindful of your pennies while out on the town, then head to the Marketplace Grill at 8302 Phoenix Ave.  Though not based in our river valley, Marketplace Grill is an Arkansas establishment worthy of your patronage. With great service and fresh food as their hallmarks, it’s tough to find a better buy on an economical Friday evening. 

A highlight of the Marketplace is their liquid refreshments list. Unfortunately this list does not include alcoholic beverages. Hold steady for there is an abundance of specialty beverages from which to choose. From flavored teas and lemonades to cream sodas and Italian ices, there sure to be something with which to sate your thirst.
   
As for the meal, bring a date and take advantage of their pick-a-dish special for $19.99.  This particular choice offers no end to the possibilities. Two entrees, dinner salads, and hot bread will be bookended by an appetizer and dessert of your choice. No matter where you dine, there won’t be a better way to sample as much different food.
   
Money well spent and ready for more, cruise down Massard to Zero Street. Hang a right and head to Grand Central Station. Located at 7521 Zero St., this Fort Smith establishment promises to be an eye opening adventure courtesy of the karaoke machine (another wonderful import to these lands).

Though there are some who might tell you otherwise, it is okay to drink Coors in public. So take advantage of the Station’s reasonable rates and let that Silver Bullet drive you on up to the stage. To honor your beverage of choice you might try a rendition of Johnny Paycheck’s not so famous tune, “Colorado Kool-Aid” (Choosing this particular tune will also help ensure the safety of your fellow patrons for it might dissuade those currently contemplating spitting beer in another guy’s ear). Your tireless chronicler of the night has been assured that the karaoke will be hopping from 8 to 11:30 p.m., though they “can usually keep it up for quite awhile after that.” Sounds like a good train to ride.

Know your Peter
Born and raised in Fort Smith, Peter Lewis is a graduate of the University of Texas. Prior to returning to the Fort Smith area, Peter spent the past year as a bartender living abroad and traveling. Although The City Wire staff has no proof, we think Peter is a closet Starsky & Hutch fan.

Contact Peter at [email protected]